NASHVILLE, Tennessee — Dodge is known for bucking conventional pickup-truck wisdom. The '94 model polarized everyone with its brazen big-rig styling. For 2009, the Dodge Ram gets perhaps its most significant breakthrough yet: rear coil springs. That's big news, as is the 390 horsepower rating of the revised 5.7-liter Hemi.

But is class-leading power and a new suspension enough to lure more half-ton shoppers to Dodge's lots? With Ford and GM well entrenched in the pickup game and Tundra and Titan nipping at Detroit's heels, Dodge has to do better than good enough. And that's especially true in these, the hardest times yet for the full size pickup market. The verdict from down south? Dodge has created the smoothest riding full size pickup yet. —Tom Morr

The active intake system feeds filtered air to long intake runners when low-end torque is needed and automatically switches to short runners as the revs climb. The Hemi exhales though a free flowing, slightly louder exhaust. The large 4-inch exhaust tips are frenched into the rear bumper for a cleaner look. And all Hemis are backed by a five speed automatic.

So, with all that grunt, what'll she do? Dodge says acceleration should be best in class. The 2WD R/T short bed is expected hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds. That's like a Challenger with a pickup box—a real muscle truck.

Even with increased power, the Hemi's fuel economy is up an estimated 4 percent. That's primarily due to the Ram's aerodynamic improvements and slight 80 pound weight reduction as well as the engine's updated Multiple Displacement System (MDS). Like before, MDS switches from eight to four-cylinder operation for better economy. But the system can now maintain four-cylinder mode above 70 mph in low-load conditions. The Hemi should achieve EPA ratings of 13-mpg city and 19-mpg highway for 2WD models and 13 city and 18 highway for 4x4s.

The two Magnum engines are also refined for better power and economy and can run E85 fuel. Like the Hemi, the 4.7-liter V8 gets two spark plugs per cylinder and higher compression to deliver 310 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. The base 3.7-liter V6 is rated at 215 hp and 235 lb.-ft. of torque and returns 20 mpg on the highway.

Four-wheel drive Rams come standard with a part-time transfer case but can be optioned with the automatic "on-demand" system. Both have 2.72:1 low-range gearing and are electronically actuated with a dash switch. In the rear, Dodge engineers chose a five-link system to keep the solid rear axle and coil springs centered under the truck. Compared to leaf springs, coils are more tunable and Dodge offers 12 different spring rates. The new suspension maintains payload and tow ratings (a maximum of 9,100 pounds) while shedding 40 pounds of rear suspension weight.

There are three cab configurations distributed over two wheelbase lengths. But the new Crew Cab model with a 5-foot, 7-inch bed is the biggest news. The Crew Cab increases Regular Cab legroom by six inches and adds in-floor storage compartments too.

Want more secure room in your Ram? The new RamBox storage system fills in the wheelwell areas along the inside of the bed with lockable storage. The RamBox runs the full length of the 5-foot 7-inch bed on both sides and can hold 7.4 cu.- ft. of stuff. That translates to about 250 12-ounce cans with ice. And yes, drain plugs are included. This slick system also includes a bed-divider and extender that collapses into the tailgate as well as cargo-rail tie-downs with adjustable cleats.

In the past, the materials and execution of Ram interiors appeared heavily influenced by Chrysler's accounting department. In other words, there was too much hard plastic. No more. Overall, amenities are much improved, with supportive seats and cushier armrests. Luxurious options now include heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel and a 10-speaker surround-sound system. And Dodge's Uconnect infotainment system brings Bluetooth, a 30 GB hard drive, a touch-screen nav system and Sirius Backseat TV to the Ram for the first time.

The Drive

So does Dodge's new suspension really break new ground? Well, our drive on back-to-back loops over rural two-laners revealed handling improvements. The 2009 Ram was noticeably more stable than its leaf-sprung competitors. The rear coils keep the truck firmly planted through back country chicanes, inspiring driver confidence and even some exuberance. And yes, it rode much better too.

But the lateral stability—a traditional compromise with coil springs—was downright eyebrow raising. While towing a 7,200-pound travel trailer, traditional tail wagging was rarely perceptible, even on the curviest roads. And it's nice to know Dodge's Trailer Sway Control can intervene as necessary by individually applying brakes and/or cutting engine power. Haul-testing with a thousand pounds of horse-chow in the beds, the Hemi helped the Ram crest the rolling hills easier than the V-8-equipped F-150 and Tundra. That's impressive. Even the V6 was a more-than-adequate cruiser on the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway.

The Ram's off-road performance exceeded our expectations too. The TRX4 package with large all-terrain tires and 17-inch wheels almost made the Ram seem nimble. The rear coils offer increased droop, maintaining tire-to-ground contact through the off-camber ravines. The light steering feel made this fullsized Ram seem smaller than it actually is while slithering over the tight, wooded trail.

Inside, the improvements made our time behind-the-wheel time pass quickly. The seats' adjustable lumbar support made for an effortless day cruising, even with bellies full of Southern cooking. Our only gripe: The IP's LED data-center display isn't legible at quick glance. However, it conveys a wealth of useful information, including engine-operation hours.

The Bottom Line

The new Ram is a significant step forward in half-ton truck ride and handling. And that ride quality is now closer to that of a car than any body-on-frame pickup yet.

Still, through no fault of its own this new Ram could be a tough sell today. Even a well-behaved pickup that comfortably and competently hauls passengers and non-industrial-strength loads could languish on dealers' lots — along with all the other fullsize pickups and SUVs.

Dodge will unveil a more fuel-efficient hybrid Ram next year and a light-duty diesel after that. And in case the 390 horsepower Hemi isn't enough, 6.1-liter version is in the works too. Further, the 2010 Heavy Duty 2500 and 3500 models will adopt the 1500's styling and amenities. And that's good news indeed.